Cover by Amin Helal
RAISING THE ROOF ON HOUSING
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staff Ian Froese, Editor-in-Chief editor@dalgazette.com
Benjamin Blum, Sports Editor Daniel Bergman, Asst. Sports Editor sports@dalgazette.com
Joelline Girouard, Copy/Online Editor copy@dalgazette.com
AGM DALHOUSIE STUDENT UNION
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
FEBRUARY 12
Chris Parent, Photo Editor photo@dalgazette.com
Kristie Smith, News Editor Jesse Ward, Asst. News Editor news@dalgazette.com
Emily Davidson, Art Director design@dalgazette.com
Sam Elmsley, Opinions Editor opinions@dalgazette.com
Ian Fleming, Video Director video@dalgazette.com
Mat Wilush, Arts Editor Zoe Doucette, Asst. Arts Editor arts@dalgazette.com
Aaron Merchant, Business Manager business@dalgazette.com Isaac Green, Financial Manager advertising@dalgazette.com
6PM DALHOUSIE SUB, RM 303 More details to follow at DSU.ca
FROST
FEST Jan. 24th
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the fine print The Gazette is the official written record of Dalhousie University since 1868. It is published weekly during the academic year by the Dalhouse Gazette Publishing Society. The Gazette is a student-run publication. Its primary purpose is to report fairly and objectively on issues of importance and interest to the students of Dalhousie University, to provide an open forum for the free expression and exchange of ideas, and to stimulate meaningful debate on issues that affect or would otherwise be of interest to the student body and/ or society in general. Views expressed in the letters to the editor, the Streetr, and opinions section are solely those of the contributing writers, and do not necessarily represent the views of The Gazette or its staff. Views expressed in the Streeter feature are solely those of the person being quoted, and not The Gazette’s writers or staff.
This publication is intended for readers 18 years of age or older. The views of our writers are not the explicit views of Dalhousie University. All students of Dalhousie University, as well as any interested parties on or off-campus, are invited to contribute to any section of the newspaper. Please contact the appropriate editor for submission guidelines, or drop by for our weekly volunteer meetings every Monday at 5:30 p.m. in room 312 of the Dal SUB. The Gazette reserves the right to edit and reprint all submissions, and will not publish material deemed by its editorial board to be discriminatory, racist, sexist, homophobic or libellous. Opinions expressed in submitted letters are solely those of the authors. Editorials in The Gazette are signed and represent the opinions of the writer(s), not necessarily those of The Gazette staff, Editorial Board, publisher, or Dalhousie University.
Jan. 25th Robbie Burns Day Ski Trip
Location: Wentworth Price: $20 (FREE lift ticket if you wear a kilt!)
Halifax Mooseheads vs. Cape Breton Screaming Eagles Winter Society Carnival
Jan 27th
Location: McInnes Room Time: 11am to 4pm
Jan 29th Super SUB Laser Tag
1) Hadfield to celebrate Dal’s face oddities—Gazette staff, News
Location: McInnes Room Time: 9pm
Jan 30
th
2) Q&A with Dalhousie’s new president—Ian Froese, News
Improv Comedy Night
A L L T IC K IN T H E E T S AVA IL A B LE S O F F IC E U B A N D D S U AT S E X TO N
Location: T-Room Time: 9pm Cost: $5
Feb. 1
st
Winter Beach Party Location: McInnes Room Time: 9:30pm Cost: $5 ALL AGES
Feb. 7
th
Munro Day Ski Trip Location: Wentworth Price: $50 DALHOUSIE STUDENT UNION
@dalstudentunion
/dalstudentunion
DSU.ca
Ch d s u .c ae c k o u t / fr o s t m o re in fo r fo upcom in g e v o n e n ts !
3) University weighs in on new president—Gazette staff, News 4) What CP doesn’t tell you-—Sabina Wex, Opinions 5) Local hotdog vendor suing CKDU—Kristie Smith, News
editorial
from the editor Email Ian at editor@dalgazette.com Ian Froese Editor-in-Chief
UNB faculty’s demand unreasonable Picketing profs demonstrate how universities should live within their means
Ian Froese Editor-in-Chief Dalhousie students are not immune to faculty strikes. Four of them since 1988 is a testament to this, including the surprise last day deal that prevented a walkout in 2012. We have some experience. That's why it's curious to examine the faculty strike at the University of New Brunswick—the first in the institution's history. As of mid-week, the second week of the walkout, the two sides have not met at the bargaining table. There's a chance, of course, that an agreement has been reached by now, but it doesn't look promising. These tense battles between administration and faculty are always a shame because it's the students who miss out; their education held hostage as bigger players argue over millions of dollars. The central argument to this strike is wage demands—what else? Faculty wants a salary more comparable to peers at similarsized universities in other areas of Canada. Fine. In principle, it's a fair request. According to most recent figures (unfortunately, that's from 2010-11), UNB professors average $102,144, below the Canadian university average of $112,578. The UNB administration is offering to get them within range, a 9.5 per cent wage increase over four years. The faculty's request before the strike began? A staggering 23.47 per cent over the same time period, including 5.6 per cent in the first year alone. The union says their demand will put their members in line with compatriot universities, but the faculty's request is ludicrous. Wage parity is an admirable goal, but, frankly, other universities are not in New Brunswick, whose shaky economy produced
UNB faculty members are requesting upwards of a 20 per cent pay hike. t t t 1IPUP CZ ,BSTUFO 4BVOEFST WJB 5IF #SVOTXJDLBO
an annual deficit now over half a billion dollars. The professors want to be adequately compensated, they say, so the very best faculty can teach at what should be one of Canada's premier universities. To become one of the country's finest—it’s a remark stolen from any good post-secondary administrator's playbook. At Dal, we’re as guilty as anybody of dreaming too big. We expanded at a reckless pace, ballooning from 10,000 to 18,000 students in under 20 years. We took tuition from many pockets. We didn't care much for facility upkeep. Fast forward to today
where we're in the problematic state of trying to grow modestly, while fixing decrepit, at capacity infrastructure with a low provincial grant. This is a reminder that all universities should live within their means. At UNB, it means the faculty union needs to reconsider their argument. An over 20 per cent pay hike is not reasonable. Not at a publicly funded university in a province struggling economically. Not when it would rank faculty salaries in the top 10 in the country, above more prestigious institutes who outrank UNB in academic and research feats.
At Dalhousie, it means accepting that you're at a competitive disadvantage when provincial funding has steadily lowered and will likely continue. Don't make striving to be the best your primary goal. Rising tuition drastically or cutting too many programs to make budget room is not worth it. Hopefully soon, UNB students
On the cover:
will return to the classroom. It will happen after UNB's professors acknowledge that, at this time, in this economic climate, they are not among the country's best universities, and shouldn't be compensated as such. It's a lesson for everyone, including Dal's administration.
Finding a house, as well as a roommate or two, can be a chaotic experience for students leaving the simple comforts of residence life. Amin Helal replicated the frenzied nature of the search on this week's cover. Read our numerous housing stories in this week's Gazette.
news
news
news covers Dalhousie and the greater Halifax community. Contributions are welcome! Email Kristie and Jesse at news@dalgazette.com Kristie Smith News Editor
Rate your rental DSU creates a housing board Sima Sahar Zerehi News Contributor The Dalhousie Student Union (DSU) is creating an online housing board, where students will be able to review their housing in an effort to stop preying landlords. “Landlords take advantage of the fact that students are here for a short time and no one is ever going to know. To that extent we just wanted to create a place where students can document their good as well as their bad experiences,” says Ramz Aziz, VP internal of the DSU. The housing board will be built as a feature on the DSU’s website and will allow students to advertise properties, provide background about their living experience and browse through posts using a map of the city, rental costs or amenities. Aziz says the project was started as a response to the high number of students who were coming to them, as well as to the Dalhousie Legal Clinic, with complaints of being ripped off by unscrupulous landlords. “In many cases the landlords were taking advantage of the fact
that students were too busy to actually do anything significant,” says Aziz. Aziz explains that even in cases where students took all the necessary steps to deal with their housing problems, some landlords still failed to make any changes. Students would spend weeks or months on filing a complaint to the province and appearing at the housing tribunal. Even if they got a positive resolution from the tenancy board, they would find that landlords often refused to follow up on any of the board's recommendations. Ultimately, many students would give up because of they don’t have the time or money to go after their landlord again by going to civil court, says Aziz. The housing board would be particularly useful for students coming from other provinces or international students unfamiliar with Halifax rental prices. “This would be almost like Rate My Prof. It will build an institutional memory for Dal students,” says Aziz. The website will be powered by content generated by students who can swap or trade properties. In building the project, the stu-
The DSU's housing board will aim to keep student renters informed. t t t 1IPUP CZ 4JNB 4BIBS ;FSFIJ
dent union researched similar sites at other universities including Queens, Waterloo, and Mount Allison. While Mount Allison spent $15,000 building their housing system, the DSU is building its housing board for $1,500. The student union anticipates that the board will need ongoing staff-
ing to moderate the site once it’s up and running. They budgeted for a part-time position at $400 a month. The project is a few months from completion. The student union is still in the process of ironing out any possible legal kinks. “It’s a huge legal risk on our part—these are students’ views—
we moderate it of course but we have to be conscious of potential libel or the potential of comments that may be baseless.” The housing board is scheduled to be running by May, with a possibility of smartphone apps as well.
South House raising money to get on the bus Crowd-sourcing to fund the other side of the abortion debate Kristie Smith News Editor Dalhousie's sexual and gender resource centre is fighting fire with fire—or, rather, ads with ads. Pro-life ads from Signs for Life have recently sprouted all over Metro Halifax buses and bus shelters, reading “Luc was born today but his life began nine months ago.” Rather than petitioning to have the ads removed, South House is taking a different approach: they're raising money to publish ads of their own. “Something had to come of
this,” says Allison Sparling, the campaign's coordinator. “It's like we have this conversation every few years, you know? It's like we play whack-a-mole with it. We have this conversation, we try to talk about it, and it turns into both sides yelling 'freedom of speech' and we put the conversation off for a few more years.” South House's goal is to give an alternative message to bus patrons, giving information and access to services the Signs For Life ads do not. “I was disappointed by the antichoice ads because I felt they were
trying to target vulnerable people,” says Laura Ovens, women's representative on the Dal Student Union, “and that the ads were misleading. I think we all felt that we wanted to get the message out there that there are pro-choice services and organizations available to people in Halifax.” The campaign began on Jan. 14. In only four days, they had already raised almost $2,000 half their overall goal of $4,000. Graphic designers are volunteer-
ing to design the new ads, so the money raised will cover printing costs and publishing on Metro Transit buses and shelters. “By giving them information and resources we can help empower individuals to make the decision that’s best for them,”
said Jean Ketterling, administrative and volunteer coordinator at South House in a recent press release. “You can’t make major life decisions based on shame, fear and misinformation.”
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What to know before you rent
10 tips and traps to know in Nova Scotia Kristie Smith News Editor Nova Scotia is known for some of the most limiting rental rules in the country. While it's not your best friend, the Nova Scotia Tenancy Act is there to protect you. Do yourself a favour and read it well, keep it close and ask questions.
1. Actually get your copy
It's a little-known fact, but if you haven't gotten your copy of the Act from your landlord, you can move right back out. You can get your deposit back and leave, no harm done, if your landlord fails to give you a copy within 10 days of the following: the day you sign the lease, the day you get
your keys, or the day you actually move into the rental unit. If your landlord has failed to give you a copy of the Act (for free, of course), you are within your rights to move out as long as you've given three months notice. This is good to know if you change your mind early or discover problems after moving in.
2. Google your potential home
Weird as this might sound, it could save you from a big mistake. There are a few locations used in scams year after year to lure in dozens of students, offer to rent to all of them, collect their deposits and disappear. Better safe than sorry.
3. Things go quickly
Don't come back in September expecting to walk a few blocks and find a perfect apartment waiting for you. This city is saturated with students. If you want a particular neighbourhood or are working within a certain budget, you'd better start early.
4. So, have your deposit ready
You can look at a place and tell the landlord you love it all you want, but it's not yours until your deposit check is theirs. Be prepared to give them a half a month’s rent, and not a penny more. After that's in, you'll be able to sign the lease and call your new place home. Otherwise, don't be surprised if you come back a few days later and find out someone else loved it too—now it's gone.
5. Figure out how long you’re staying
If you think you might be somewhere for more than a year, you have options. You can re-sign for an additional full year or switch to month-to-month. You just need to let your landlord know three months before your last day.
6. Same goes if you're not staying
If you want out after your lease is up, you still need to tell your landlord three months in advance. Not doing so means they assume you're staying and can charge you for a month’s rent (at least), considering they had less time to try to rent the place out.
7. Subletting isn’t always worth it
If someone sublets from you, you're still responsible if the apartment catches fire. If they throw a party and tear through a wall, guess who has to pay for that? Your subletter enters a contract with you, but you're still in a contract with your landlord. You can sue for damages, but ultimately, prepare to foot the bill until that works out.
8. And not every landlord will let you sublet
Probably because someone at some point partied through a wall. If you plan on moving back home for the summer, you might want to make sure you know your options first to avoid a nasty surprise in April.
9. The weird stuff: bedbugs, mice and more
It can be scary, embarrassing and a lot of things to find a mouse or a bedbug in your room. Don't hide it, though. These little pests are not your responsibility, or at least not yet. Immediately notify your landlord and have them send over an exterminator or cleaner (at no expense to you). Keep in mind, you're responsible to follow the professionals’ instructions and keep the rodents and roaches out. If they come back because of your negligence, it's on your head. That's not to say you're liable if you see another antenna or tail, but you have to do your part to keep the place clean.
10. Talk to your landlord
This list is by no means exhaustive. If you want to know what the rules are to move out early, go month-to-month, add a roommate, paint or do whatever, ask your landlord. While the Act exists to protect everyone from getting ripped off, there's no reason you and your landlord can't come to a mutual agreement.
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A second look at security DSU pays about $48,000 for security, but is it enough?
Maybe one last cabin trip? t t t 1IPUP CZ +VMJBOP 'SBO[
NEWS BRIEFS Jesse Ward Assistant News Editor How secure are your belongings in the SUB?. t t t 1IPUP CZ +BTTQSFFU 4BIJC
Nikki Jamieson News Contributor On Nov. 20, 2013, nearly $12,000 worth of photography equipment disappeared from the Dalhousie Gazette office. While most of the gear has been returned anonymously, the Halifax police are still investigating. There are currently no surveillance camera in that hallway, as well as numerous other places, since a need was never determined until now. Rather, most thefts in the Student Union Building (SUB) happen out of opportunity, Dal security officials explain. Thefts of opportunity occur mainly in highly populated areas, such as the SUB or the Killam Memorial library. These buildings are designed and operated to be more accessible for students, and the amount of traffic makes students less conscious of their surroundings. “About 90 per cent of the thefts happen from property left unattended,” says Jacob MacIsaac, community safety officer for Dal Security. “It might be anywhere where people might leave something on the table where they get in line for five minutes, or in the library or a residence room.”
“We call it ‘apple picking,’ actually,” he adds, “because the preferred targets tend to be Apple products, but it’s driving the thefts on campus.” The SUB has an annual budget of approximately $48,000 for security. This goes towards the maintenance of alarm systems, cameras, key control and staffing student night managers, who patrol during the less busy evening and weekend hours.
“PREVENTING THEFT IS EASIER THAN CATCHING A THIEF” “Most of our security challenges are directly related to running a building which a) has longer operating hours than most buildings on campus and b) meets the DSU priorities of being an open and accessible building for the diverse needs of its members and building tenants,” says Craig Kennedy, the DSU's general manager.
“To a great degree we depend on those tenants who are using the building in the evenings and weekends especially, to ensure they take reasonable precautions around their property,” he says. Dal Security has an ongoing campaign to serve as a visual reminder for students to not leave their items unattended. Students are also encouraged to keep records of their serial numbers written down, back up their information and use anti-theft software and devices like laptop locks or phone-locating apps. If something is stolen, students are supposed to report to Dal Security, who will in turn report it to the police. Dal Security will gather statements and video surveillance, which they cannot turn over without the initial report. “We try to engage the Dal community, because safety and security is very participatory. So we can do our part, which is patrolling, watching, being a visible presence and deterrent and assisting with any follow-up if it happens,” says MacIsaac. “But preventing theft is easier than catching a thief, so we encourage people not to be an easy target by leaving things unattended. Reducing the opportunity takes away the likelihood.”
Fall reading week to be considered for 2014
Dalhousie students will have a week away from classes next November if a motion passed by the Dalhousie Student Union (DSU) is also passed by the Senate. DSU councillors voted Jan. 15 in favour of asking Dalhousie to implement a fall reading week for 2014. Dal introduced a study day in 2010, falling next to Remembrance Day to offer students a two-day break. Making the rest of this week a holiday would create a second reading week. By introducing a week-long break in either October or November, Dal would be following suit with other major Canadian universities. Acadia, Ryerson and other schools have introduced reading weeks within recent years. While the vote was not unanimous, with some councillors abstaining or rejecting the motion, there is some executive support. Ramz Aziz, DSU VP (internal), replied to a student’s suggestion for a fall reading week last month on the DSU’s Soapbox website. “The University passed on the
Fall Reading Week for this year, but that doesn't mean the conversation has ended!” said Aziz. “I believe it is important that next year's DSU exec make it a priority!” Dalhousie Senate will have final say in the implementation of the break at a currently unknown date.
A cool place to break the ice
There are still opportunities this semester for you to meet new friends, discover causes that inspire you and get some inflatable basketball in between classes. Dalhousie’s first Winter Society Carnival will be taking place in the McInnes Room in the Student Union Building (SUB), from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Jan. 27. The DSU says the carnival will be “bigger than ever before.” More than 70 clubs and societies participated in the fall society carnival. Interactive exhibits and carnival games marked the event where Dalhousie and King’s students were invited to find out new ways to involve themselves in the campus community. The upcoming carnival will have over four times the budget of the fall’s, at approximately $6,500. One new feature will be on-stage demonstrations, where societies will get their message across through performances.
opinions
opinions
gazette opinions welcomes any opinion backed up with facts, but we don’t publish rants. Email Sam at opinions@dalgazette.com to contribute Sam Elmsley Opinions Editor
It’s freezing!
Fashion should adjust accordingly Jessica Melanson Opinions Contributor
This is the kind of housing I can get behind. t t t 1IPUP CZ "NJO )FMBM
Housing matters
Everyone deserves a place they can live with Sam Elmsley Opinions Editor When my dad was in college, he lived with a guy he called “Zeke baby” (what? I know) in an apartment covered with shag carpet on the floors AND WALLS. The kitchen walls, made of stucco and decorated with beer bottle caps, were the only exception to this. My mom thought it was gross, but my dad loved it. And this was fine. It didn’t matter that it was possibly the grossest place I’ve ever heard of: he was comfortable there, and that was important. Students (all people!) should feel comfortable in their own homes. Though the words “student housing” typically conjure up images resembling my dad’s college pad, not everyone wants to live in such an environment. Student housing tends to be
pretty hit and miss: I’ve moved every year and seen a lot of gross apartments. A note to landlords: just because we’re studying, doesn’t mean we’re always content to live in a festering pit of neglect. My current landlords get this: this apartment is immaculate. And it’s made a noticeable difference in my life. Last year’s place had a mouse infestation, and my dinner was interrupted one night by a rat scurrying across the floor. It was absolutely disgusting, and it changed my relationship with my space—the kitchen is usually my room of choice, but after these incidents I was afraid to go in. Not having to put rubber boots on to cook my dinner has left me much more relaxed in my home this year. Besides cleanliness, a lot of other factors contribute to making a space liveable. Do you want
to be close to campus or further away? Do you want to live with all your friends or just one? Do you prefer basements or high-rises? Sobey’s or Superstore? Perhaps most of all: do you mind noisy neighbours, or do you need quiet? Certainly, waking up at 3 a.m. to your neighbour’s raucous partying will do a lot to make going home an unhappy burden, and lack of sleep will affect mental health very quickly. Of course, most young’uns can cope with a certain level of decrepitude in our houses. Many of us have to, as it tends to be the cheaper option. But like most things in life, it’s a balancing act: I’m happy to pay more in my final year for an apartment I love coming home to. We may spend half our waking lives in the library, but even students appreciate decent housing.
I feel at my best when I spend a little more time than usual getting dolled-up. I’m sure some of you would agree with me. However, I wish you didn’t, because this is the perfect example of the influence the media has had, and still has, on us. As children, we couldn’t care less about what we wore and what we looked like. This changed radically over our teenage years. It’s a critical period of time when we try to discover who we are and to decide upon the image we want to set out in the world, while dealing with pressure and judgment from our peers. We are constantly exposed to billboards, magazines, movies, TV shows, Hollywood star drama and other social media which are sure to affect our perceptions of beauty. Usually, a ‘pretty girl’ on a magazine cover is air brushed, photoshopped and far from her actual self. However, if that’s the image I associate with being pretty, I will try my best to match that image the next time I seek feeling pretty. I tend to laugh at fashion. I like to believe the fashion industry is trying to fool its consumers by coming up with the most hideous trends and convincing them that they’re hip, but with the true goal of seeing how gullible their consumers are. My favourite example is the crop top. I’m 99 per cent sure the fashion designer who came up with that idea was Edward Scissorhands. He’d be the one to mistakably cut a shirt in half and decided to make it the new and exciting trend. This silliness takes a serious angle when we enter a boutique. If I’m trying to find a simple, everyday t-shirt, I’m stuck looking through shirts that have the back open, the shoulders cut off or a V-neck (or all three at once). Shopping becomes a sport when you have to dig and sort through
Fashion should serve us bulky sweaters and insulated pants for cold Canadian winters. t t t 1IPUP CZ %FCPSBI 0PNFO
these endless varieties. I can hardly find my regular, everyday t-shirt because few are made available: instead, I’m encouraged to go for the ‘half the material, same price’ shirt. No thanks! If I could manipulate winter fashion, I would make insulated jeans and blown up sweaters. We live in Canada, where we are lucky to experience all four seasons— can’t fashion understand that by now? Fashion encourages people to dress a certain way, and if everybody is doing it, it becomes a norm. Let’s change that norm and become our own fashion designers. After all, it can’t be worse than Edward’s design!
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Housing beyond the bachelor What a generation wants Josh Fraser Staff Contributor What happens in those quiet moments? I can't be the only one who fantasizes about what life could be like for me down the road. I have this soppy vision of a custom-built house in the side of a hill, with wildlife and gardens and the smell of the sea, where I would be happy. Then I read the Globe and Mail’s housing report and projections, and that dream is treated to an intense reality check. Simply put, trends show that being able to afford a house with a yard may not be within reach of many young families as time goes on. There is a good news/bad news feel to this problem. A great many of my friends appreciate living in an apartment; it fits low cost-ofliving mentalities, but many speak of a ‘someday’ when they are married and looking to start a family. As this kind of life moves out of financial reach, I am left uncomfortable with the reduced possibility of attaining life goals, like owning property and maintaining my own independent dwelling Still, are these goals realistic? Do they match up with our generation’s values? Surely we want the smallest ecological footprint, an ultra-simple existence that bases more on networks than on possessions. Homeownership is not an easy idea to leave behind. There is something about a spacious
dwelling that can be complex, customized and decorated meaningfully that has become a part of our human identity. To some extent, all apartments run into frequent incursions between tenants because one person’s floor is another’s ceiling; in a house, noise disturbance is curbed heavily and separation allows more room for personal growth. Not a lot can be done about rising costs. It seems to be our generation’s burden to slow inflation and re-commit our economy to actually economizing resources. Inevitably, a major resource is livable space, and the current manner in which it is allocated ensures that the people who need land and space the most (presumably to raise kids and food) are often incapable of purchasing the space, or will never own it in their lifetimes. The idea that the banks own, through mortgage and loan alike, the majority of private property is a heinous fact that will bury us in time. They determine all prices, and will profit at any social cost. Living under constant threat of eviction from apartments and dealing with costs of urban life can make people risk-averse and stymie the unfolding of one’s life. In some ways houses are not much better as the maintenance costs add up, but many take solace that renovations often increase the value of the building. Between equity and resale, houses make
Many still harbour dreams of homeownership, but rising costs may make it a niche market. t t t 1IPUP CZ "EFMF WBO 8ZL
much more sense in terms of how effective efforts and dollars are when investing in a living space. Stepping away from the individual, we might ask ourselves about ecological impacts. On one hand, humans congregating in large centres may mitigate the effects of our population explosion, bal-
ancing land use with protected wilderness. Yet living in concentration is not something humans seem to do very well; our refuse is concentrated, our food supply is expensive and wasteful and violence is rampant. Not everyone who wants a family thinks of a white picket fence,
and not every aspiring homeowner lives for the pitter-patter of little feet. Still, this ‘housing shortage’ promises to play a role in our cultural and social psychology. I am hopeful that the market can be regulated over time to reflect the needs of humans, not the size of their treasury.
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Russia’s anti-gay laws
Should Canada reject the Olympics? Jackson Haime Opinions Contributor There have been talks, speeches, conversations, web-forums, radio shows and rallies discussing Canada’s attendance, or lack thereof, at the Sochi Winter Olympics. We’re coming down to the wire on this issue with the 2014 Games beginning on Feb 7. We should attend. There are many conflicts in Russia right now, the most urgent of which is their stance on gay rights. The thought of not attending the Sochi Olympics as a message on behalf of the LGBTQ movement is a romantic idea, but not a realistic one. In 1936, the Olympics were hosted in the city of Berlin. At the time, Germany was ruled by Adolf Hitler. There were minor boycotts of these Games, but most of those were by athletes and not countries. Canada attended the Olympic Games hosted by Hitler. The most striking example of boycotting in Olympic history is actually the last time the Olympics took place in Russia (Moscow, summer 1980). The majority
Janice Allen Staff Contributor The role of undergraduate research has been debated recently, including in the Gazette. Presenting at conferences or writing for journals alongside one’s studies may prove draining, but presents many opportunities to students, particularly those considering graduate studies. Conducting and presenting original research at the undergraduate level offers many benefits. As was previously pointed out, these include recognition and dissemination of one’s work, and development of transferable communication skills. To students considering a researchbased graduate program, practicing research and presentation also provides a unique and valuable glimpse into what lies ahead. Graduate school, particularly a
of the countries who skipped did so because of the Russian invasion of Afghanistan—Canada and the United States included. The threat of war between nations made the Olympics a rather sensitive issue. Olympic boycotts are a big deal. I am not going to argue that gay rights in Russia are not a big issue, but there are better ways to protest their policies than skipping an event that was made to bring nations together—and a lot of those things are being done already. U.S. President Barack Obama is currently sending two openly gay former athletes—tennis player Billie Jean King and hockey player Caitlin Cahow—as his delegates for the Olympic opening ceremony. This marks the first time in over a decade a member of the White House will not be in attendance for the opening ceremony. Prime Minister Stephen Harper will be skipping the event, as well. Outside of North America, Germany’s president is boycotting the Olympics, and sending their athletes in fabulous rainbow jackets
research-based program, is very different from undergraduate study. There is a stronger emphasis on research, and a higher level of independence and selfdirection is expected. Individual projects are more involved, with longer intervals between feedback and evaluation. There is less opportunity to change pace by switching between simultaneous assignments. Working productively (and happily) in this regime is quite different from the demands of most undergraduate programs. When applying to graduate school, students commit to at least two years (longer, if planning a doctorate) of study, often without much experience in the type of work they’ll be conducting. I entered my master’s program having worked as a research assistant, but without experience presenting my work for a jour-
Canada can stand up for gay rights in many ways—boycotting should not be one of them. t t t 1IPUP WJB 'MJDLS
for the opening ceremony. The president of France is boycotting, as are several other leaders. Overall, the international statement is in support of the LGBTQ movement, even if many aren’t officially saying so. Canada is doing its part to show we aren’t in support of their laws, even if we are doing it outside of
Researching, writing and presenting professionally prepares undergrads for the realities of most master’s programs. t t t 1IPUP WJB 'MJDLS
nal or conference. I found the style of work at the master’s level to be a real adjustment. While I thrived on the increased independence, I struggled with the shift in feedback (no more severaltimes-weekly assignment grades). Being new to writing professionally in my field, I was intimidated working with other research-
the Games themselves. It was perhaps put best by Italian International Olympic Committee (IOC) member Mario Pescante when he said, “The games should not be an occasion and a stage to promote rights that sports supports daily.” It is impossible to argue that countries aren’t using the Olympics as a stage already at this
point, but this is where it needs to end. Our athletes should not be used as political pawns to support a movement they may or may not support themselves. They have trained their whole lives for this. We should take national pride in it, not national issue with it.
ers. Engaging in undergraduate research gives students a feel for what grad school might be like, and enables them to make a more informed choice about whether this is a good match for them. Research can also be a meaningful teaching tool, when incorporated into coursework. Research projects often require a hands-on approach, and shift ownership of learning to the student. Working with real-world data and problems can be particularly motivational, and helps to put coursework into context beyond the classroom. Additionally, research often requires a combination of individual and group effort that is representative of working environments both within and outside of academia. Undergraduate research also presents some challenges. As previously noted, these include additional work for students already stretched thin, and potentially leaving some students at a disadvantage (if they’re not participating). While research experience provides an advantage for stu-
dents applying to grad school, this is likely less consequential for students looking for work outside of academia. For students intent on grad school, the benefit of ‘testing the waters’ with research in undergrad probably outweighs the downside of additional work. Some may argue that undergraduate research is not scrutinized at the same level as graduate work, making it a less effective tool for evaluating research as a career choice. It’s likely, however, that the adjustment from coursework to a research-based program is more significant than the variability of mentorship styles among supervisors. Undergraduate research offers many benefits, particularly to those students intending to pursue graduate school. Not every student is interested in research as a career option, but for those who are, presenting their work in conferences and journals bolsters their CV, provides an opportunity to hone communication skills and offers a chance to assess whether grad school is a good fit.
artsculture
arts & culture
arts covers cultural happenings in Halifax. &NBJM .BU BOE ;PF BU arts@dalgazette.com to contribute. Mat Wilush Arts Editor
Your first lease shouldn’t be trying to kill you Red flags and warning signs
Don't wake up each morning wondering if that stench is normal. t t t 1IPUP CZ "EFMF WBO 8ZL
Meagan Wiederman Arts Contributor The property market is a sea of strange houses, further complicated by the rush of students looking for September leases. You can make the mess a little more manageable by keeping in mind some common red flags that might make you reconsider the flat you found online. Many people would say that damage is a huge red flag when looking for a house—but “damage” is a very broad term. Cracks and breakage in the walls are common, but not condemning; they are easily fixed and won’t drastically affect one’s quality of life. Rather, you should watch out for
bubbling under any painted walls, which is frequently a sign of water damage. Not only is this destructive, but it can lead to the formation of mold in the walls and floor (under the carpet or floor boards), and this poses a big health risk. Damage that impairs the function of facilities of the residence can be fixed, but are sometimes not attended to. Always ensure all necessities of the house are in working order at the time of the lease, including the toilets and fridge. Remember that not everything you see on the internet is true. It’s all too simple to Google a picture of a nice house to help advertise your lopsided rental to busy students in need of a lease. Beware
of houses advertised online which do not display the house’s civic address in any of the pictures. Always view a house or apart-
“WATCH OUT FOR BUBBLING UNDER ANY PAINTED WALLS” ment in person before entering the lease. Many other factors should also be considered when looking at
a house. Not only do you want a place that will not raise any red flags, but you want affordability. The listed prices of leases are not all directly comparable because different properties include different services in the price. This commonly includes electricity and water, but may sometimes include laundry, cable and Wi-Fi. If you don’t plan on spending the summer in Halifax, then the length of the lease or subletting should also be considered. Additionally, when looking at the costs of a particular house, remember to consider the increased cost of transportation incurred from properties farther from campus, the grocery store and downtown areas. Even the
increase in commute time when living farther from classes should be weighted when considering an apartment. Similarly, the extra time it will take to cook meals and eat should be considered when finding a place to live. First-years looking for a place for second year should also consider whether they wish to seek a furnished apartment, or invest in furniture—a cost frequently overlooked when apartment-hunting. Altogether, ensure you pick a comfortable and affordable place you’d be happy living in for the next few years. It’s quite a timesaver to find a good location the first time around and simply continue the lease throughout your post-secondary education.
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Charming and cheap
A student’s guide to decorating on a budget Leah Stall Arts Contributor So, you’ve spent countless hours scouring ads on Kijiji, visited every half-decent flat in Halifax and have finally decided on the place you want to call home. What’s next? Next comes the dilemma of making it feel like home, without further emptying your wallet. Making your place look great doesn’t have to be an expensive affair; there are many ways to jazz up your new space on a student-friendly budget.
1. Something old = something new
We all have things that once served a purpose and are now useless. Use your old band shirts and turn them into throw pillows for your couch. Three simple steps: sew the shirts together and leave one side open, stuff the opening, and stitch it up to give your old shirts a new purpose. Your couch is looking fab but
the walls are looking drab? Problem solved. Check your parent’s basement and pull out their old records. Putting them in a cheap picture frame and hanging them or leaning them on some shelves can really make your place stand out. After cracking open a bottle of wine or a beer with your friends, instead of throwing it out, use it as a funky candleholder (keep the wax drippings running down the sides to make it look vintage) or a makeshift vase for you dinner table centerpiece.
shops is that they’re relatively inexpensive and the possibilities are endless.
2. Thrift shopping
Sure, you can go buy some designer décor to spice up your flat, but why not make your own? Find a decent piece of cardboard and—for under $20—grab some chalkboard paint (yes, it exists) to create your very own chalkboard! Hang it in the kitchen or living room and draw away with some bright coloured chalk. It also serves as a great chore organizer for you and your roomies.
Walking into a secondhand store can be overwhelming, but when you take the time to browse, you are sure to find some sweet knickknacks to give your place some character. Some cool things you may find include vintage license plates to mount on the walls, unique vases for your coffee table, funky artwork and decorative lamps. The best thing about thrift
3. One man’s trash is another man’s treasure
Garage sales are an awesome place to find decorative pieces that are easy on your bank account. From curtains to fixtures to pieces of furniture, you’ll be surprised at the stuff you might find. Keep in mind that you can always fix these items up; a can of spray paint and some creativity can go a long way.
4. DIY
Paint everything you lay your eyes on. t t t 1IPUP CZ "EFMF WBO 8ZL
14 arts&culture
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Which Halifax neighbourhood is for you?
Try on our sorting hat and figure out where to make your home for the next year Zoe Doucette Assistant Arts Editor
Questions
What’s your biggest concern?
a. Being near your university and other students. b. Being in an active area with access to events and bars. c. Affordability, being near lots of amenities and grocery stores; having a quiet retreat. d. Living in a vibrant, progressive and arts-oriented community.
Your budget?
a. Moderate to high. You’re willing to pay more for a good location. b. Money isn’t a problem for you. c. Low. You’d rather save on rent than be in the middle of things. If you do feel like going out (which is rare), you can always hop on a bus or walk. d. Selling homebrew doesn’t generate much income, but you know a guy who’ll let you crash in his closet for a while…
What do you like to do on a day off?
a. Hitting a hot yoga class or Starbucks with friends. b. Bar hopping, with a 2 a.m. donair snack. c. Walk your dog, pick up a few groceries and a six-pack for your weekly potluck. d. Sleep all day, then play a sweaty basement house show with your doom-metal inspired folk band.
Your favourite drink? a. b. c. d.
Herbal tea. Artisanal cocktails. Local beer. Bathtub hooch.
Your ideal neighbours?
a. Other students. b. Will leave you to your own devices. c. A mix of families and students—a real neighbourhood feel. d. Artists and musicians, working people.
Answers Mostly ‘a’ – You belong in the South End. Here, there’s a mix of prestigious homes and student housing. You’re steps away from campus, if not still on it. You’re close to the bustling Spring Garden district, and the downtown core is easy to reach for nights out.
Mostly ‘b’ – Downtown. You like to be in the thick of things, and prefer living in a high-rise to a salt-box house. Theatres, shopping and places to drink keep you going. You like having what you want when you want it, and you like having a good time.
Mostly ‘c’ – Welcome to the West End. From Quinpool Road to the Halifax Shopping Centre, this central but quiet residential area presents a budget friendly option for older or calmer students. Grocery stores, banks, a slew of restaurants and the Oxford Theatre mean that you never have to travel far from home.
Mostly ‘d’ – You’re destined for glory in Halifax’s North End. This lower-income area is going through some intense gentrification and social changes. If art and activism are your passions, you’ll find comrades and culture to fuel your fire.
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Keeping it courteous Joelline Girouard Sex Columnist If you’re not used to sharing a space with people you’re not related to, the transition can be difficult. I’ve never seen so many bottles in a shower, or so many mugs in a cabinet. But it’s fun. The roommate relation-
ship is all about sharing. Coffee, alcohol, advice—sex noises— everything. It’s happened to everyone. You hear an unfamiliar creak or squeak. You hear voices, but no words, and you wonder if that’s what you think it is. When it doesn’t stop—it intensifies, or picks up speed— you realize that yes, it is. Your roommate is having sex. While there usually isn’t a 100 per cent effective way to drown out your blissed out buddy, everyone can do something to help. First and foremost: at least try to keep it down. (This, of course, refers to the roommate having the sex.) We know it feels good, and we know it’s hard to contain those moans and sighs of pleasure but…could you at least give it a shot? And for
those of you who listen in envy/ annoyance, give them a break. How many times have you told yourself you’d be quiet, only to lose control of your vocal cords? Yeah. That’s what I thought. Next, something the whole household can enjoy: music. This one’s really a group effort. Usually it begins when those not having sex start to get really annoyed. They’ll put on some music, and they’ll turn it up loud. If you’re the one causing the ruckus, you’re not allowed to complain, even if your roommate plays “Wrecking Ball.” (If you’re a roommate, then please, don’t play “Wrecking Ball.”) Same goes for the one having sex—it’s only fair to turn it up loud enough to mask some of your noise, but make sure it’s something everyone can at least tolerate. This should cut down
Don't come a-knockin'. t t t 1IPUP CZ +PFMMJOF (JSPVBSE
on any passive-aggressive/not so passive-aggressive notes stuck to your door. Finally, if it’s an option, go somewhere else. Your partner’s
apartment, perhaps? Realistically, someone is probably going to have to put up with you. The least you can do is spread the joy.
sports
sports
sports covers athletic events and topics relevant to Dalhousie. Email Benjamin and Daniel at sports@dalgazette.com to contribute Benjamin Blum Sports Editor
Aggressive X-Women dominate Tigers St. FX hands Dal its first loss of 2014
The Tigers were leagues ahead of the competition last weekend. t t t 1IPUP CZ $ISJT 1BSFOU
Strong finish to undefeated swim season Records fall as Tigers dominate
Benjamin Blum Sports Editor
Courtney Thompson (5) driving to the lane against the X-Women. t t t 1IPUP CZ ,JU .PSBO
Daniel Bergman Assistant Sports Editor Friday night is usually a time for celebration—an opportunity to leave one’s weekday cares behind. For the Dalhousie Tigers women’s basketball team, however, last Friday was anything but jubilant. Missed defensive assignments and wasted offensive opportunities doomed the Tigers (5-5), who fell 77-63 to the St. FX X-Women (4-7) in an early evening game at the Dalplex. “We just got outplayed,” said women’s head coach Anna Stammberger following the match's conclusion. “We didn’t look after the ball well… They played an aggressive, physical defence and we didn’t respond.” Turnovers were certainly an issue for the Tigers throughout the game, as St. FX seemed to be in the way of every pass. After being repeatedly knocked to the
floor by onrushing X-Women, Dalhousie players began to look uncomfortable at the offensive end. “Basketball’s a physical game, so you just have to kind of put that behind you and not get affected,” said third-year forward Tessa Stammberger, who led her team with 19 points off 8-for-16 shooting. “We practiced that yesterday too… it just didn’t come through.” The Tigers—who were coming off two consecutive victories to start the New Year—turned the game around briefly in the third quarter, outscoring the X-Women 22-13 to regain the lead by a slim margin. “We were having problems with our man defence,” coach Stammberger noted, explaining the third-quarter shift in momentum. “We changed it and went into the zone a bit more, and that helped us get some stops.” However, the relief did not last long. The X-Women stormed
back to start the fourth quarter, swarming the Tigers and once more forcing poor shots and mental errors. The Dalplex grew silent as the X-Women nailed basket after basket, outscoring the home team 26-11 to take an insurmountable lead. While it will take a little while to recover from the defeat, Tessa Stammberger is confident her team knows what to do next. “We have to focus on […] making that extra pass, or being more patient with the ball,” she said, adding that limiting turnovers is also high on the to-do list. Whatever the cure, the Tigers will surely be hoping that future Friday nights don’t result in such painful hangovers. The Tigers are in fifth place after last weekend, with Acadia and UPEI right behind. They play at Saint Mary's on Friday, Jan. 24 and welcome Cape Breton to the Dalplex the next evening at 6 p.m.
Hosting their second meet of the season on Jan. 18-19, the Dalhousie men’s and women’s swim teams continued to leave the competition in their wake. Both teams finished in first place for the fourth consecutive time this season. The team had a strong start to the weekend, opening the first session with record-setting performances in the women’s 200 metre freestyle. The team swept the podium, with Molly Wedge, Meagan Bernier and Paige Robillard all eclipsing the previous Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) record time. Keishia Mills also set a new CIS benchmark in the 200 metre backstroke. The team ultimately would go on to claim 15 of a possible 30 podium positions, including 5 first place finishes. As well, both men’s and women’s 200 metre medley relays won to secure their first place overall after the first session. Records kept changing during the second session, with the women’s team continuing to rewrite swim history. Wedge added to her resume with a CIS record in
the 100 metre freestyle, while Alison Grant and Bernier finished first and second respectively in the 800 metre freestyle to set new CIS records. Another pair of relay wins, combined with Rachel Shin’s CIS record in the 200 metre individual medley, further distanced the two teams from the rest of the pack. On the men’s side, the team sat 65 points ahead of second place while the women’s squad held a commanding 220 point lead. The men’s team added to the record haul during the third session, as Olympian David Sharpe broke the CIS record in the 200 metre backstroke, along with more records for Wedge, Grant and Shin on the women’s team. In typical fashion, both teams continued to dominate the podium and finished in first while putting significant distance between themselves and the rest of the competition. With the team continuing its commanding performance in the pool, it’s not hard to fathom that they will have further success at the Subway Atlantic University Sport (AUS) championships from Feb. 7-9 at Memorial University.
18 sports
Jan. 24 - Jan. 30, 2014 t
Fancave Formula
Stadium
TRIVIA 4. Snacks
Keep your pantry stocked with extra chips and dip, have enough noshables to send people home with mini hotdogs for tomorrow and make sure the fancave is situated within 30 steps of the front door. Otherwise, the choice between pizza and missing sports history comes into play.
7. In-game entertainment
Eventually there will be a lull in the game, so have something like darts, bubble hockey or a pinball machine to keep the spirit of competition alive. For kids of all ages, mini-sticks and, sigh, a video game console work too.
Benjamin Blum Moderately Extreme Home Makeoverer-er Imagine, if you will, a part of your home that is a sanctuary of sport, a dimension of sound, sight and whatever Don Cherry is wearing that evening. For those who truly believe—and truly commit—any room in your house can be solely devoted to the wide world of sports. With apologies to Mr. Serling, such visions and ideas can come to fruition outside of the Twilight Zone. With a bit of planning and permission from your significant other, you can have your very own fancave. So once you get permission, fill your to-do list with these 10 essentials to create what will be the focal point of your home and the envy of your neighbourinos.
8. A robot butler
Just like the one in Rocky IV. Paulie not included, but I hear Burt Young needs work, so open your window and yell “Yo!”
2. Furniture
A couch is essential, plus a vintage stadium seat on display and a solo chair to make sure your one friend who gets too into the games has some room to be nervous without making
5. Proper climate control
Alright dear readers, it’s time for something completely different. This week’s issue of the Gazette is all about housing, so we here at the Sports section want to talk about the homes of sports: stadiums! Comment online with your answers or tweet @dalgazettesport to participate. Good luck!
1. What is the last stadium that still hosts both an MLB and an NFL team full-time?
a. Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego b. Dolphin Stadium, Miami c. O.co Coliseum, Oakland d. Heinz Field, Pittsburgh
2. What team formerly played at 60 Carlton Street, and memorializes the stadium with their mascot’s name and jersey number? a. Manchester United b. Winnipeg Jets c. Dallas Mavericks d. Toronto Maple Leafs
No one wants to shiver while watching the game, so keep your
9. A television
Did I go this long without mentioning a TV? Ruh-roh! Anyway, get a TV and some form of sports package to watch any and every game, match, bonspiel, derby and international conglomerate-sponsored college bowl.
3. Part One: How high is the Green Monster? a. 46 feet b. 37 feet c. 45 feet d. 39 feet
3. Part Two: How far is Fenway’s right field foul pole from home plate? a. 302 feet b. 345 feet c 406 feet d. 321 feet
3. Beverages 1. Space
You’re going to need a decent amount of room to fully realize your dream fancave and have adequate room for friends and family. For one-person accommodations, see “Batcave, The” or “Fortress of Solitude, The” in your encyclopedia.
Glass bottles of pop are a must, along with whatever choice of beer correlates to the game being watched (i.e. Sam Adams for Red Sox games). Bonus points for an R2D2 fridge, because jocks can be nerds too.
6. Décor
Memorabilia and artwork pertaining to your favourite teams should adorn your walls. Jerseys, game-used equipment, bobbleheads and signed photos are all great, but make sure to have one piece that’s truly unique, like an unopened box of “Flutie Flakes” or Howard Cosell’s toupee.
10. Cleaning supplies
This place isn’t going to clean itself, so be a responsible host, break out the Lemon Pledge and guilt your houseguests into chipping in.
4. What was the name of this rink that was, to quote the Gazette, “unceremoniously dynamited” two years ago?
a. Halifax Forum b. Memorial Arena c. Veterans Stadium d. Nassau County Coliseum
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Overtime solves nothing for men’s basketball
Tigers unable to get past St. FX in extra frame
Graeme Benjamin Sports Contributor After pulling out two of four points the previous weekend in Fredericton against the University of New Brunswick Varsity Reds, Dal was unable to get their season back on track, losing in overtime to the St. FX X-Men 76-72 on Jan. 17 at the Dalplex. The Tigers put up a valiant effort against their Atlantic University Sport (AUS) third-ranked counterparts; however, the X-Men were able to effectively preserve in the extra frame. After a back-andforth contest through three quarters, the X-Men were able to take the lead with five minutes remaining in the fourth. Simon Marr stepped up for the Tigers in the dying seconds of the bout, nailing
two three-pointers to tie the game at 65 and ignite the home crowd. After St FX’s Jordan Clarke nailed a jump shot with just over a minute remaining, Dal’s Ritchie Kanza Mata drove hard to the net, making the layup while getting fouled in the process. Mata was unable to sink the extra shot, sending the game to overtime. The extra frame was another back-and-forth battle with equal opportunities coming from both sides. The X-Men pulled ahead with 1:24 remaining after Kevin Bercy sank a key basket and followed up with a free throw shortly after. St. FX didn’t look back from there and were able to grind out the final minute of the game. Marr had a game-high 24 points in the contest, while William Donkoh led the way for the
X-Men with 20 points. This was the first time the two teams faced each other since St. FX knocked Dal out of the playoffs last season in the semifinal. The last time the Tigers beat the X-Men at home dates back to Feb. 12, 2013. The loss leaves the Tigers with a 2-8 record on the season and only ahead of the Memorial Sea-Hawks in the AUS standings. Dal currently sits 14 points out of a playoff spot. The Tigers now have to prepare for a crucial weekend of play, as they have two four-point games ahead of them against their cross-town rival Huskies on Friday, followed by the Cape Breton Capers on Saturday. The teams hold the two spots above the Tigers in the standings.
Devon Stedman (15) puts up a contested shot in the paint. t t t 1IPUP CZ ,JU .PSBO
By Mat Wilush and Kit Moran
What makes your house unique?
"Cool roommates." Ashleigh Mount 2nd-year Bio and Sustainability
"It's realy small." Campbell Woods 2nd-year English
EVENTS ď˜ł DAL FRIDAY, JAN. 24 Lecture, Health Law and Policy: The Federal Government: Leader in Health Care?, by the Hon. A. Anne McLellan, 12:101:30 p.m. in Weldon Building, Room 104 (lunch served)
"It always smells like candles." Shelby MacDougall 2nd-year Microbiology
"The furniture is not in its usual place." Jinny Kim 3rd-year Science
Keys and Krates, performing at the Grawood, 9 p.m. ($10 presale, $15 for 19+). SATURDAY, JAN. 25 Dalhousie Gaelic Colloquium, starts at 10 a.m., Rowe Building, Room 1007 (RSVP required) Dal at the Halifax Mooseheads vs. Cape Breton Capers, Halifax Metro Centre at 7 p.m. Tickets: $5 at SUB info desk and residences MONDAY, JAN. 27 Senate Meeting, 4-6 p.m., MacDonald Building, University Hall
"It's my house." Amjed Katmeh 2nd-year Microbiology
"The ocean." Irmak Ural 2nd-year Literature
TUESDAY, JAN. 28 Panel; The Damaging Effects of Discrimination: A Conversation, 6 p.m. at the Rowe Building, Room 1020 Dalhousie Toastmasters meeting, 6:30-8:15 p.m. in SUB Council Chambers WEDNESDAY, JAN. 29 ESL Workshop: Canadian Culture and Language, 4-6 p.m., Mona Campbell Building DSU council meeting, 6:30-9 p.m. in the third floor of the SUB
for more listings, visit dalgazette.com FRIDAY, JAN. 31 2014 Academic Program Fair, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m., SUB, McInnes Room Beauty and the Beast - the Pantomime, 7:30 p.m. in the Arts Centre, fourth-floor, MacAloney Room. Tickets: $9 for adults. Dalhousie Children's Wish Society Pacifico Night. 9 p.m. - 1 a.m. at Pacifico, 1505 Barrington Street. Tickets: $10, includes two drink tickets.
THURSDAY, JAN. 30 Lecture: Exploring the Role of Mitochondrial Cholesterol in Niemann-Pick Type C Disease, 4- 5 p.m., CRC Building, Theatre D
t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t t submit listings to events@dalgazette.com
comics
comics
comics covers the funny ha-ha and the funny peculiar. Email Emily at design@dalgazette.com Emily Davidson Art Director
Old Heart by Amber Solberg
Jocular Impulse by Aniruddha Waje
Hoo-Haw by Andrea Flockhart
TWEET TO WIN
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Dalhousie Anglican Society
WINE before BREAKFAST wednesday mornings at 7:45 a.m. A quiet contemporary Eucharist, followed by a simple breakfast to enjoy fellowship together. DAL Multifaith Center corner of Edward St & University Ave Da l /Ki ng ' s C h apl ai nc y!
Client: Chickenburger (Soup) Job Number: 4264 Media: Dalhousie Gazette Specs: 6.05� x 7� Contact #: 902 835 3559
January 24, 2014
Daniel Bryce Masters of Planning Most Nova Scotian rural communities have been demographic shifts over the last decade. Simultaneously aging and declining populations are making it increasingly range of quality assets to these communities. Traditionally, communities have planned for growth; infrastructure and services were built with the belief that future increases in the tax base would cover expenditures in the near term.
Andres Collart 5th Year Industrial First it was the little-known cunningly requested to be seated in the spacious seats with a little more legroom at no extra cost. Then as the airlines became cash-strapped became commonplace, this little-known secret became a great money-maker. Exit row seating soon became known under different names, such as “Economy Plus”, “Preferred Seating” or the incredibly creative “Even More Space seats” (Courtesy of JetBlue). This allows airlines to charge around $50 extra for those few extra inches of legroom, although half the time you give up the ability to recline. Your choice.
Planning for decline Tackling the future of rural development However, according to the 2011 census Metropolitan Halifax contains about 40% of the Province’s population and with a global trend toward increasing urbanization, less of the population pie is left for smaller communities. If this is the case, the way we think about rural development needs to change. In some areas of the USA efforts to resist decline have begun to cease; instead, the reality of decline has been embraced as local governments have rationalized, or decommissioned, local
services with the hopes of improving the quality of life for present and future residents. The emphasis is no longer on growth through the attraction of more residents, but rather on concepts such as allowing current residents to age in place and maintaining reasonable levels of service. For architects perhaps this requires the design of modular buildings that can be disassembled and repurposed or sold off as a community contracts. For planners this means thinking about the
future demographics of a community and how to creatively reuse space and facilities that are under utilized. For engineers the creation of small compact and easily maintained infrastructure systems would allow for communities to reduce future cost outlays. Whatever the to rethink how we develop systems and structures from a growth centric approach to and resiliency.
100-200 words = $15 200-400 words = $25 400-600 words = $30
exit row
600+ = $35
Discussing the risks of the airline industry's best kept secret Despite the great money making opportunity that exit row seats present, I want to point out the inherent safety implications. Allow me to illustrate. Like many of you, I to be seated right behind the exit row.As we were about to approached the people seated there and asked something like this: “You’re seated in an exit row…please indicate with a verbal ‘yes’ that you are willing to comply with crewmember instructions in case of an emergency.” Apart from the fact that the statement introduces an obvious bias into saying “yes”, especially after they’ve already charged
you for the seat, there are several other issues. Some fact that you should be able to communicate in English, but few say you should be able to help other passengers and be able to exit the aircraft quickly in case of an emergency. Anyways, when we landed the lady seated in front of me had issues with taking her bag out of the overhead compartment. A gentleman standing in the aisle had to help her retrieve her bag. That got me thinking. What if this lady had to open the emergency exit door of the plane after we had just fallen from the sky? Would she be physically able to? FAA
Picture of the Week,
Federal Aviation Regulations state that the person seated in an exit row should be able to “lift out, hold, deposit on nearby seats, or maneuver over the seat-backs to the next row objects the size and weight of over-wing window exit doors.” No problem right? Except that these doors weigh up to 60 pounds! Given that on most airlines your carry-on isn’t allowed to weigh more than 22 pounds, there seems to be some obvious issues. But sure, let’s continue to pay $50 for the privilege of getting a couple extra inches of leg room and accept a legally binding contract that you’ve read just about as much as a software terms of service.
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Martini Monday!
Every Monday from 4:30 - Close: 2 oz Martinis $5.25
Tuesday all night Happy Hour! 4:30 - Close: Beer, wine, shots $4.25
1500 Brunswick Street corner of Spring Garden and Brunswick